Mayor and at-large candidates must get valid signatures from 1,331 registered Jersey City voters – that’s more signatures than you need to run for U.S. Senator or governor, Byrne noted – while ward council candidates must cross a smaller threshold.

The ward candidates need to hand in signatures from voters in their wards, Byrne said, so don’t stand outside the ShopRite on Marin Boulevard collecting signatures if you’re running in Ward D.

Byrne is also urging candidates to collect more signatures than they need, in case one or more of the signatures is deemed invalid. Candidates can challenge signatures on their competitors’ petitions, he said.

“It’s a cut-throat thing,” he said.

Byrne said he will hold an informational meeting on Monday, Jan. 14 at 6 p.m. in the council chambers at City Hall, 280 Grove St., for candidates, campaign managers, campaign treasurers and anyone else interested in the election process.